Welcome to the Classroom Environment "Focus of Practice" page !!!


Some opening notations from research studies conducted on classroom environments:

  • Research on the classroom environment has shown that the physical arrangement can affect the behavior of both students and teachers, and that a well-structured classroom tends to improve student academic and behavioral outcomes.

  • The classroom environment acts as a symbol to students and others regarding what teachers value in behavior and learning.

  • A well-arranged classroom environment is one way to more effectively manage instruction because it triggers fewer behavior problems and establishes a climate conducive to learning.

Most researchers agree that well-arranged classrooms settings reflect the following attributes:

  • Clearly defined spaces within the classroom that are used for different purposes and that ensure students know how to behave in each of these areas

  • A classroom for students with learning/behavior problems may have separate quiet spaces where a student can cool down or work independently.

  • Seating students in rows facilitates on task behavior and academic learning; whereas more open arrangements, such as clusters, facilitate social exchanges among students.

  • The traffic pattern in the classroom should allow the teacher to be in close physical proximity to high maintenance students.

Here is a series of links which may contain some useful strategies to try as part of your classroom environment:

Article: 12 Rules for Arranging Your Classroom
Article: Classroom Organization: The Physical Environment
PowerPoint Presentation: Creating a Positive Classroom Environment
Article: Bulletin Boards and other displays - Using your bulletin boards as a teaching tool — not just as decoration.